College Blog

We started the College Blog as a way to highlight and discuss topical issues pertinent to physiotherapists, patients and others. In the spirit of transparency, we encouraged open debate and constructive criticism with comments in an open format. For this to be effective, comments need to remain professional and respectful.

Unfortunately, one individual has taken things too far by posting numerous comments that were inappropriate and abusive towards College staff.

As a result, we have removed the open comment feature on the College Blog and Case of the Month posts. Individuals may still submit comments, however they will be reviewed by College staff and any comments that are irrelevant and/or contain inappropriate or abusive language will not be published.

Scent-Free Policies

If you have a scent-free policy and the person smells strongly of cannabis, do the same thing you would do if they were wearing a strong-smelling perfume or smelled of tobacco—ask them to wash the scent off and refrain from wearing it in future. In the case of smoking, they may need to change their clothing.

Incorporating It into PT Practice

Remember, physiotherapists can’t recommend, sell, administer or prescribe drugs, including cannabis (except under delegation). If your patient is considering cannabis as a treatment adjunct, refer them to an appropriate professional who can recommend or prescribe. Note that only doctors and nurse practitioners can prescribe medical marijuana.

Refusing Treatment

What if your patient shows up for treatment and is high?

Simple—do the same thing you’d do if they showed up drunk and were either not capable of providing consent or treatment would be risky to them in their condition—refuse treatment.

Every time someone arrives for an appointment, you need to decide if the person can provide consent. You start by assuming that they’re capable, unless the person is obviously impaired.

If the person is obviously impaired by drugs (including cannabis) or alcohol, inform them that you’re unable to provide treatment because you believe that they’re impaired and document the facts (unable to treat because of suspected impaired judgement) in your records. Reschedule and ask that they refrain from drinking or smoking before their next appointment.

Physios Indulging

Just like any other extra curricular activities you may choose to take part in outside of work, if you decide to use cannabis in your off hours you must ensure that you are in no way impaired when providing treatment to patients.

Human Rights

What if your patient uses cannabis medicinally rather than recreationally?

Regardless of why they’re using, if they’re not capable of consenting because their judgment is impaired, you should refuse treatment. Be sure to be respectful and non-judgmental in your communication, and remember, cannabis use does not necessarily result in impaired judgement.

Peter Ruttan, registered physiotherapist and Investigator at the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario, blogs about the responsibilities of a Practice Supervisor when working with Physiotherapy Residents.